Sudakov explains why he didn’t join Juventus or Napoli: ‘There were offers’ | OneFootball

Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Georgiy Sudakov has revealed that he had offers to join both Juventus and Napoli and has explained why a move to Italy did not materialise, despite his continued interest in playing in Serie A.

The 22-year-old gave an in-depth interview to Corriere dello Sport, published on Tuesday, in which he spoke about his potential moves on the transfer market and the reality of living and playing in a war-torn country.

Sudakov has spent the entirety of his senior career with Shakhtar Donetsk, living in Kyiv where the club’s training ground is based, but has gone on record to express his interest in moving to Serie A.

“It’s a country with big footballing history, tactical football and passionate fans,” Sudakov told Corriere dello Sport.

“For a midfielder with my qualities, Serie A could be the perfect place to grow. There are a lot of top-level midfielders, the coaches are great tacticians and the football is very intense. Also many Ukrainian players have already made their mark in Italy.”

Sudakov on Juventus and Napoli offers: ‘I never said no’

GELSENKIRCHEN, GERMANY – JANUARY 22: Heorhii Sudakov of FC Shakhtar Donetsk runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between FC Shakhtar Donetsk and Stade Brestois 29 at Arena AufSchalke on January 22, 2025 in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

He went on to reveal that he had offers from both Juventus and Napoli, but did not end up joining either side due to the demands of his current employers.

“First of all, there were offers from Juventus and Napoli. Secondly, I never said no. I would like to test myself in the Italian league, especially in a team that’s full of stars, but the final decision is up to the managers and President of my club.

“Napoli made an offer, but Shakhtar decided I should stay with the team.”

Asked specifically if he is still interested in moving to Serie A, Sudakov replied: “We’ll see, as I said, Serie A is the perfect place to grow.”